Shreyas Iyer has officially been declared fit for international cricket after receiving clearance from the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE), paving the way for his return in India’s upcoming ODI series against New Zealand.
The 31-year-old had been included in the squad with a fitness clause, as selectors and the medical team closely monitored his readiness following a lengthy injury layoff. His comeback hinged on his performance and physical response during competitive domestic cricket, particularly under match conditions.
Iyer recently featured for Mumbai in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, leading the side and batting at No. 4 against Himachal Pradesh. He played an impressive 82 off 53 balls, showing no signs of discomfort during or after the innings, which reassured the medical staff about his workload and match fitness.
Originally, Iyer was expected to complete Mumbai’s next match against Punjab on January 8 before formal clearance. However, the CoE team, satisfied with his recovery and physical readiness, granted him clearance ahead of schedule.
The India vice-captain had been sidelined since October last year after sustaining a spleen injury in the third ODI against Australia in Sydney. The injury required hospitalisation and kept him out for nearly three months, halting his international momentum and delaying his return to the side.
With his recovery complete, Iyer is set to return to India’s middle order. During his absence, Ruturaj Gaikwad filled the No. 4 spot, scoring his maiden ODI century in Raipur, but Iyer’s return is likely to see Gaikwad move down the order or miss out on the playing XI.
Although the ODI series against New Zealand may not be high stakes, Iyer’s return is a major boost for India’s 50-over setup. A stable middle order has been key to India’s plans, and if Iyer quickly regains form, it will strengthen the team’s prospects in upcoming matches and tournaments, given his proven ability to deliver match-winning performances.
